Hiring a postpartum doula can be such a helpful step when you're adjusting to life with a new baby. Doulas offer nurturing, hands-on support during a big life transition – but there can be some confusion about what we actually do (and don’t do). Understanding where our role begins and ends can help you get the most out of the support we offer.
We’re Not Medical Professionals
Postpartum doulas provide amazing emotional and practical support, but we’re not medical providers. That means:
– We can’t give medical advice or diagnoses
– We don’t prescribe medications
– We’re not a substitute for your doctor or midwife
– We don’t make medical decisions for you or your baby
We do keep an eye out for things that might need medical attention and will always encourage you to check in with your provider if something doesn’t seem right.
We’re Not House Cleaners
We help keep your space feeling calm and manageable, but deep cleaning isn’t in our job description. That means:
– We don’t do heavy-duty cleaning (think scrubbing floors or cleaning bathrooms)
– We won’t handle laundry for the whole household – but we might wash and fold a load of baby clothes
– We don’t reorganize your kitchen or tackle big home projects
What we do is tidy up, wash bottles, prep simple meals, and help create a cozy, functional space for you and your baby.
We’re Not Nannies or Babysitters
While we help with newborn care – and may absolutely take over so you can rest – our focus is really on you – supporting and guiding you as you find your rhythm. That means:
– We work alongside you rather than taking over
– We’re here to help you learn, not just do things for you
– We’re focused on the whole family’s adjustment, not just the baby
Our goal is to build your confidence, not to replace you.
We Don’t Offer Full-Time Sibling Care
We love helping older siblings adjust and can offer ideas for including them in baby care, but:
– We’re not hired to babysit or provide full-time childcare for older kids
– Our attention is centered around the postpartum parent and new baby
If you need dedicated childcare for older siblings, it’s a good idea to line up a babysitter or family help during those early days.
We’re Not On-Call 24/7
Postpartum doulas work during specific, agreed-upon hours:
– We’re not available outside of those times unless arranged in advance
– We don’t provide emergency care
– We keep clear boundaries around our availability so we can show up well-rested and ready to support you
For anything urgent outside of scheduled hours, your doctor or healthcare provider is your best resource.
We Don’t Bring Judgment
This one’s so important. A postpartum doula offers support without judgment:
– We meet you where you are, supporting your unique parenting style
– We’re here to support your choices, not tell you what to do
– We offer evidence-based info, not personal opinions
– We’re your sounding board and your cheerleader, not your critic
Every family is different, and we’re here to help you feel confident and supported, not pressured or second-guessed.
At Newby Nurturing, we offer compassionate, non-judgmental support to help you feel more confident as you care for your baby. Whether you’re needing overnight care, guidance with feeding, or simply someone to walk beside you during the early weeks, we’re here to help. Reach out any time to learn more about how we can support your family.
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